*The "up to" speed displayed in Mb is the maximum possible speed you are likely to receive for this product. The actual speed you will get depends on your cabling, your area and (with non-fibre optic products) time of day and how far you are from the telephone exchange. Most providers will tell you the likely speed you will receive when you begin your online sign up - this may differ from the speed displayed in the table.

The deals available at your postcode are subject to local availability. The provider will confirm availability for your line.

There’s a lot of jargon bandied around when it comes to broadband. And unless you know what all the tech-speak actually means, it can be hard to know if you're getting a service that's right for you.

ADSL is one of the most important concepts for you to get to grips with. And that's because it relates to the most common type of connection available in the UK.

The ADSL in ADSL broadband stands for:

Asymmetrical
Digital
Subscriber
Line

How ADSL broadband works

ADSL broadband is a broadband connection which runs through the copper wires of a phone line. Most standard home broadband is ADSL broadband, although latterly we have seen the arrival of faster ADSL2 broadband technology, as well as cutting-edge fibre optic broadband.

When ADSL broadband is installed, a microfilter is plugged into your phone connection which separates the frequency of your phone line from that of your broadband connection. It is this that allows you to surf the web while chatting on the phone.

An ADSL broadband connection comes through the BT phone line network, direct to your house. All the technology is already in place, so connecting is really simple and the service is available right across the country.

What ADSL broadband deals can you get?

Enter your postcode into the postcode checker on our home page to see what packages are available in your area

ADSL broadband deals

Because the majority of internet service providers operate an ADSL and ADSL 2 broadband service, there is hot competition for business. This has resulted in low prices and great new deals appearing every month. If you play your cards right you could also benefit from bonus features such as free hardware, free landline calls and deluxe security software.

ADSL broadband allows users to access fast broadband connections of up to 24Mbps. You can find out more about fast ADSL broadband and compare all fast broadband packages here Fast broadband

Who are the key ADSL broadband providers?

If cost is your main concern, then ADSL broadband providers such as Talk Talk and BT offer packages at very keen price points. If you’re a frequent user and want to make more of the internet, you're advised to pay more attention to the speedy connections with unlimited download allowances that some providers offer.

Is ADSL broadband right for me?

If you want some help deciding which broadband package is best for you, you can weigh up the advantages of a home ADSL broadband connection against those of mobile broadband by reading our home v mobile broadband guide.

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